Testing Lyme for peace of mind

About

Why myLymeTest

What happens after you come home from that week of camping in the great outdoors? You unpack the bags, do the laundry, post some pictures, and take a shower. Do you check for ticks? If it’s not part of your routine, perhaps it should be.

Very often people with Lyme disease don’t know they have it. Ticks can be very small and overlooked and the diagnostic bullseye rash doesn’t always show up. Symptoms can be mild or misinterpreted—a little nausea that doesn’t last long, a headache that comes and goes, and mild joint stiffness. These non-descript symptoms might make you think that you have a “flu” or even allergies.

Yet, if you’ve been working or playing outdoors, especially in an area where Lyme disease is widespread, then there is a real possibility that you may have been infected with the bacteria causing Lyme disease. Lyme bacteria have been found in every state, but there are certain places where ticks causing Lyme disease are more prevalent. The map above represents where cases of Lyme disease have been reported.

The myLymeTest was designed to provide you with information about your exposure to Lyme disease. Lyme disease is diagnosed with a blood test. Early detection and treatment helps prevent complications like Lyme arthritis and meningitis. The myLymeTest measures antibodies formed in response to the bacterial infection.

The myLymeTest is easy to use. The sample collection kit will arrive a few days after you order it online or by phone. The instructions will tell you how to obtain your blood sample and send it to the laboratory performing the test. All the test requires is a simple fingerstick and a few drops of blood. Once the laboratory receives the sample, testing is performed and results are available in less than 10 business days.

A positive result should prompt you to see your physician. Lyme disease is treatable. A negative result means that you have not formed the antibodies to the Lyme bacteria. Your negative result may also mean that it’s too early for antibody formation and careful monitoring for symptoms is warranted.

Four easy steps for getting results

1) Order a Test Kit

2) Provide Sample

3) Mail Sample

4) Results in 10 days

Your test is performed in a US, CLIA-approved laboratory. A CLIA-certified lab must meet certain quality standards, including qualifications for individuals who perform the test and other standards that ensure the accuracy and reliability of results.